Late comebacks, surprise defeats, enthralling encounters and spectacular performances in goal were some of the themes in Gameweek 9 of Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2020-21. Mumbai City FC continued to look like the team to beat and ended Gameweek 9 on top of the league standings with ATK Mohun Bagan close on their heels. Hyderabad FC and Bengaluru FC suffered more defeats, while Kerala Blasters FC fell short despite a spirited display. SC East Bengal had a good gameweek as they registered their first-ever Hero ISL win. Here we have a look at some of the takeaways from the last gameweek that concluded with the SC East Bengal-Odisha FC game.

SC East Bengal register their first-ever Hero ISL win

After a long wait, SC East Bengal fans at last saw their team picking up their first three points of the season. Anthony Pilkington, Jacques Maghoma and new-signing Bright Enobakhare were on target in the team’s 3-1 win over Odisha FC. After losing their first three games in what is their debut season, Robbie Fowler’s men have improved of late having earned one win, three draws and one defeat from their last five games. Meanwhile, Odisha remained winless this season after the defeat.

Jamshedpur climb into the semi-final spots

After suffering a loss in their previous outing, Jamshedpur put their best foot forward against Bengaluru and got the better of the former Hero ISL champions courtesy of a narrow 1-0 win. Stephen Eze – the highest-scoring defender this season with three goals – was the sole goal-scorer in the game and his strike propelled Jamshedpur into the semi-final spots for the time being. Their custodian TP Rehenesh also played a big role in the win by making five saves to secure his team’s third clean sheet of the campaign.

ATK Mohun Bagan’s defence continues to shine

Speaking of clean sheets and solid defences, Arindam Bhattacharja was at his brilliant best again against Chennaiyin to register yet another shut-out. It was the Mariners’ sixth clean sheet of the campaign from eight matches and Arindam was in the thick of the action. He made seven saves over the course of the game and was equal to the task whenever called upon. ATK Mohun Bagan now need to add more goals to their team with a solid base at the back already intact.

FC Goa’s spirited late comeback

One of the most enthralling matches of the past gameweek was Hyderabad’s clash against Goa. Hyderabad went in front through an Aridane Santana goal in the 58th minute and looked on course for a victory. However, the Gaurs weren’t prepared to go down without a fight and their determination to keep going was rewarded in the form of two late goals that gave them the win. Substitute Ishan Pandita made an instant impact by leveling the score a minute after coming off the bench and Igor Angulo netted the winner in added time to cap off a spectacular comeback.

Mumbai City strengthen position atop of standings

Mumbai played some beautiful football and went 2-0 ahead by the 11th minute in their clash against Kerala. The Islanders could have easily scored more goals had they been a bit more clinical in front of goal but their failure to do so gave the Blasters hope and the southerners put on a spirited display in the second period as a result. However, Hero of the Match Amrinder Singh was switched on throughout to deny Kerala any chance of a comeback. He made four saves and helped Mumbai open a two-point lead at the top of the standings.